On Friday we learned what Chrissy Pickering loves about her horse Shorty. Today let’s find out more about Chrissy’s riding and why she loves H&R.

What is your favorite section of H&R?

I usually research information on things before I apply them to my own use. Horse&Rider articles provide good information on what to do and what not to do.

What is your favorite part about riding?

My favorite part about riding is the adrenaline rush. I also love the feeling of accomplishment, when I teach a horse something new, or when the horse that I am riding places in a class. I love the feeling that I made that happen.

What made you want to start barrel racing?

When I was 11 I bought my first horse. At the time I thought that I would only be trail riding, but within three months I was riding Ray’s horse, Bandit. Bandit was a horse that Ray wouldn’t let adults on, and would NEVER consider putting a kid on. Frany (Beverly, his wife) asked him what he thought of my riding Bandit and his words were, “You are out of your mind!” But then Frany told Ray to watch as I got on Bandit and he hopped, snorted, and danced around. There I was, sitting on this ball of fire with a big grin on my face, and that moment sparked my love for barrel racing and barrel horses. At age 20+ Bandit was still holding his own and winning classes at the local Cox’s Arena.

What is your greatest accomplishment thus far in your career?

My greatest accomplishment is being able to know that Shorty will almost always have a clean run. Within the seven years of owning him his faults within a class can be counted on one hand. I think he is a truly amazing horse.

To check out more photos from the photographer who snapped Chrissy’s winning photo, check out Puhl’s Photography!